301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjzi3RXXPZWCHAPTER II
- THERON’S DEMANDS -
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkh60LxsIiJ
The journey back to Ana’s cottage is a blur of churning thoughts. The cheerful village no longer offers solace.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKwGz7dHSIT
Each familiar landmark merely marks another step in Metro’s confused retreat. He guides Sally, the heavy oak logs rattling in the cart behind them.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqqZCtUEA58
Ana is in her garden, her frail form bent over the trampled cabbage patches; her brow scrunched in concentration. She looks up as Sally snorts softly, pulling the cart to a halt. Her gaze immediately settles on Metro’s aura, a look of concern crossing her gentle features.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwCgHZIxYym
Ana:(gently)
“Metro, you're moving like a storm's guiding your thoughts.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwQWUo3hWuf
Metro exhales sharply; frustration finally breaks through.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNbw9Z3Oaff
Metro:
“I met Theron. I lost the quarter bloom after talking to Veronica. Theron wants to negotiate a business deal now after the fact. I’m not sure if I trust him. And now he wants the Q when we meet, who knows when that will be.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡllb5yp8haK
Metro’s words bleed with frustration into every sentence.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLSugLYN0w6
Ana listens in silence.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBbcRc68645
Her calm energy waits; she watches, calmly.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoOqdoS3X9J
A dull thud lands.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2TjG0jBYbA
Ana:(voice steady, warm)
"-you didn't lose everything entirely."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKugutHG75j
Her eyes study him carefully, cutting cleanly through lingering frustration.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHsIBSxj3Cj
Metro pauses, turning slightly towards her.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb77jlMwG8Z
Ana:(thoughtful)
"I have kept a reserve of careful cultivation for special moments like this."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSOMCyMAuHd
Her sight drifts barely towards the floorboards of the cottage.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDS8MDSMHEx
"This qualifies."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZffWD0SzJP
She moves across the room and kneels beside one section of the worn wooden floor, with ease she lifts the loose board that reveals a compartment underneath. From within, she retrieves a leather pouch-small, but an appropriate weight pouch.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡefMAgtujx8
Ana rises and sets the pouch on the table. Metro studies the pouch with light intensity. Her gaze returns to Metro.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZNiMnR5ikJ
Ana:
"Run to Paul... he's a good friend. He'll understand the situation and will most likely return the leaf you gave him. With that, you’ll have the fourth that Theron expects."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJj7qw2zpla
The cottage grows quiet again, the faint crackle of the hearth filling the pauses.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVHXouoeUcB
Ana: (soft - slightly)
“Pay attention, the doors will be opened for you.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNC5QAg4NUE
Metro (takes a breath)
“Thank you. I’ll head to Paul’s before sundown.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV6f07uST6n
With a renewed sense of purpose, Metro secures the precious cargo.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6oEcWHfyP1
The sun has begun a slow descent, painting the village with rays of orange and white. The sounds of the people fade behind him as he urges Sally back towards the forest, pushing the cart rattling softly along the trail now lighter without its wooden cargo.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUuUmYUoWHv
The temperate forest can be seen as they close away from the clearing. Green and brown leaves stir overhead. The broad path becomes narrow, winding through tall oak trees.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn1BHGHnKKV
Each steady stride Sally takes carries the weight of Metro’s thoughts.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsqCcl7PtAf
The looming meeting with the king presses heavily on his mind. The bloom he gave his word on. Losing the stash and the intimate collapse of his future: if he fails to meet expectations.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeq9zJbs0da
Metro presses forward hoping to reach Paul before the end of daylight. He approaches, seeing a ribbon of woodsmoke circle from the chimney, heightening the scent of soil and pine.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9glKsAUYoQ
Paul is still at his workbench when Sally trots into the clearing, the empty cart rolling behind her. He looks up at the sound, has sharp eyes, narrow, before a grin pulls the corner of his mouth.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiS294KddVp
Paul: (calls out)
"Back so soon?"
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHLknsPg9KQ
(sets down half-carved oak block)
“Did Lord Long Face give you trouble about the oak you delivered last week?”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp5stGYz6df
(wipes his hands on a scrap cloth)
“Or did you come for an evening apple cide?”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCxYuniCVsN
Metro:(unhitches cart)
“Neither.”
The seriousness in his tone pulls Paul's attention fully. Metro makes gestures towards the empty cart.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF5C9xaUCGW
“The woods delivered.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn2gBpqN8ig
(exhales)
“I set up a meeting with Theron about ‘The Flower.’ and things went south.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlpcmyz8WYw
He reaches in his pack and pulls out three small pouches.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa0ZZr8g0PR
“I told him I would have a fourth of bloom but lost the quarter somehow.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJkKM5li4DQ
Paul's expression hardens
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpzdJjzuGGn
Metro:(head slightly slump)
“Ana’s been a saving grace.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5iPozkVYwm
(A beat)
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnvWEPDbUPN
… she's lent me her most powerful stash.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4YvMO7S1aM
(places 3 sacs on table)
“I have three zips here… but it is not enough.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpGP6mYrrxv
The words hang in the quiet clearing.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcFqtomyeq7
“I have to ask for the zip back… if you’ll spare it.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL0NgKnEPkw
“It’s not life or death, but my reputation with the nobles-- I’ll probably never open a business, like I dreamed of.’
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfsqua215cL
(Beat.)
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu1VeaCSyw8
“He wants to meet with me once again, soon, with a full pouch in hand.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNFttIb4cOg
Paul looks slightly disappointed and disgusted.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE0EJ4Fhfwd
Metro looks down at the ground, a heavy pressure weighing; his hands rest on his hips as he slowly kicks rocks with the toe of his boot. A soft clatter against the dirt in the clearing.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN6BsAzTmx2
Paul’s wise eyes soften as Metro confesses his predicament; the sadness more clear in the fading light. He listens carefully, saying nothing at first.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFh15samT91
Paul:(thoughtful)
“You lost it… huh.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxUEPORsm5s
“That’s a dangerous game you’re playing with the Council. That man collects debts with interest and not always coins.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnOvaWRIua2
He turns away, walking to a small hidden nook built into the wall of the workshop. Reaching inside Paul retrieves a leather wrapped pouch before returning. .”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVXdLaUNPxx
“That’s a dangerous game you’re playing with the Council. That man collects debts with interest and not always coin.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1g9XbsozZd
“Here.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhzVI52rEIb
Metro looks down as Paul places it into his hands.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMXlwg01No6
“It's yours. Take it.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgVJAcVv7Th
(a moment)
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxjFCzD3XYx
‘Your integrity is worth more than any plant, no matter how potent.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQZsHDDy8mX
Paul studies him for another moment.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Os0FAtVbq
“As for dealing with men like Theron, they thrive on desperation, show them only what they need to see. Keep your cards close. You have a good heart, Metro, and a keen mind. Trust that.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCypMnurOyY
Paul (pausing, gentle smile now)
And anyway...
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4pfJ69ZXDb
(He casually brushes saw dust from hands)
“If they come here, looking for the bud, I’ll tell them I know a farmer down the street—who grows the good stuff!”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzr9RksSWWf
Paul’s eyes glisten in the dimming light; a mischievous sneer crosses his face.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy5cBhDkEda
Metro lets out a soft laugh, smirking, clearing his throat.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ39V6F6WpOa
Paul continues (voice a little lower)
“Remember your inner strength. The weight of those who truly stand by you, you don’t need much else.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4wAg7wVAjP
Metro nods slowly, grasping the porch firmly.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzEFKlhLWCp
“I’ll be back soon. To let you know everything.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlz2b5OXV1j
Paul gives Metro a small nod in return.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡotboA3MemD
Metro:(waves)
“Farewell.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8x3RVngRy9
Paul:
"Be safe!”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlWYpQgJcZI
VILLAGE OUTSKIRTS FOREST TRAIL
-NIGHT-
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgu3ZUpLmIQ
Leading Sally back toward the forest path, the twilight deepens around him. The woods are quieter now; the sky can be seen through the stretch of black canopy branches from below. The stars are sparkling in a numerous host above Metro as he rides home to his cottage.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIIphTpz2IL
Shadows gather between tree trunks; a handful of hosts--tall thin reapers crowding the forest's edge like a haunting audience.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvOIUqAaJM6
They stand there, watching.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG9Cqksp9OU
The cold pressure clamps down on Metro’s ribs. He can’t see them clearly, but he feels them. Like the night itself has turned its attention on him.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr2TvIAXnkR
His skin prickles.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwUKxEbAcI0
His breath shortens.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa70ekSDTrY
Sally’s legs tremble—she’s not just scared; she’s paralyzed.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwABvBt68CX
Metro leans forward.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9vIGmoM51S
“Something doesn’t feel right, Sal.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqQ2lCnucuK
The shadows seem to stretch, lengthening across the ground, reaching without moving.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUs2JWh1Scn
The air is thickened by the silence of screams.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTH29LsUejj
Metro’s heart beats with mixed panic and fear.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8BwvhrznSX
He grips the reins.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ308VJcXXKe
“C’mon girl – LET’S GO!”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMaQM5bxvit
Sally explodes forward, breaking free of the bind of whatever previously held her. They tear down the trail, hooves hammering the dirt.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5ELM1OC4n3
(Instincts geared → Flight Mode)
Metro feels the evil angels rushing alongside the tree's lines slipping past him. Keeping pace through the trees like streaks of deeper darkness. He tries his hardest not to look back, a terrified expression on his face. The pressure is still growing, whispering at the edge of his mind.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmkAyQmPSGm
Sally runs harder.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYNQynE5DjA
Branches whip past them.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ84nfIUXh3c
The forest blurs.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHfe1QVW57S
The night seems to lean around them, closing the distance, trying to swallow their light.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7umA41F8wP
Metro’s frame shakes.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡScWp0Nv4F1
Metro:(shouting, panicking.)
“Go Sally! GO!”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxf0rQrnYsT
The shadows can almost be heard in multitude, pressing closer, crowding the trail behind him. The faster Sally runs, the more the thinned vision unwraps and bends.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGjcDYhwrd7
– But then – A faint glow appears ahead.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrYcwh9LLVO
A small home.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡorcRlqEb4v
Lanterns burn at the end of a dark tunnel; its flames begin to expand like a holy light.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEV6JiqmqTC
Metro’s humble cottage breaks through the trees like a lifeline. The moment comes into view; the pressure begins to loosen. The darkness thins, evaporating, the weight lifts.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYT8f5XVnsw
Sally slows only when reaching the clearing, chest heaving, sides trembling.
Metro turns back towards the woods, shaken.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg2zntteMnA
The forest is still again.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSaiU6RTrmX
Empty.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCLQjBMnUuk
Quiet.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmrLAybiKi4
Eerie.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFHUT5k2CgM
The feeling doesn’t vanish completely – it lingers very softly, like something evil spectating from a distance.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1imdd6r1kF
Scene fades black –
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF1o2lX7xa0
-METROs COTTAGE- MORNING
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7dmtXNvjAP
The cottage is cold and still when he wakes in his bed – gathering himself to the edge of his mat, his head drops, exhausted from yesterday's previous traumas. The weariness of a dark uncertainty settles heavy into his bones.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRM65DJBHId
Metro pulls a strip of beef jerky from a small pouch and slowly chews it with hollow eyes. He throws himself backwards on the straw mat, staring at the wooden ceiling above.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbuxuw7JH54
– OUTSIDE VILLAGE CENTER WELL–
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0kKWThBHzI
Metro unhitches Sally from her post. They walk together calmly into the village market, unleashed, side by side.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeOtx9toDbY
They head straight for the communal oven, he watches the sky's dawn, now holding her leash, listening to her comforting footsteps. The scent of fresh bread in the air also eases his mind.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjAZ27vZ187
A quiet nod to the baker and a few copper coins are laid on the counter.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiENUMlNl4K
Continuing their journey through the village square with a warm, flaky, buttery crescent in hand. He chows down rather quickly, savoring the burst of flavors as the town's energy comes to life around him.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9R5QY0YBZZ
Arriving at — ANA’S COTTAGE —
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6UoT9YO9g8
Metro quickly ties Sally to the front post near the cabbage. She drops her head to graze grass, while he attends to work. The rhythmic thud of the axe against the oak stakes and the sharp clanging of hammer against metal fill the air.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmpgkXWtYOH
Ana is already moving carefully through rows, surveying what she can from the disturbed patches of her garden. The soft murmurs drift between the plants, gentle and mellow.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyA1QV1dNaU
Metro works steadily driving each stake deep into the earth. One by one they form a protective boundary around the fragile rows.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpncVatoy2s
The morning stretches on; the sound of iron striking wood echoes softly through the yard. Each post sinks firmly into the soil, feeling like a small victory against whatever unseen force had plagued the garden.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfHwm8MpAPo
When the final stake is driven into place, a satisfying last hit echoes into the bright blue sky.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl9xZr52MSk
Weariness settles into Metro’s muscles. He pauses, catching breath, feeling the quiet satisfaction and strength that comes from an honest day’s labor.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYUvGbpzm3J
Before long, a comforting aroma of simple, hearty stew drifts from Ana’s cottage. Metro steps inside and sits at the wooden table, grateful for the warm food. He begins eating.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBRscvR8ctt
He’s only halfway through his meal when a sudden shadow stretches across the doorway.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS8uQnxWXhB
A stern-faced guard stands framed in the entrance. His broad frame blocks the sunlight behind him. One hand rest firmly on the hilt of his sword, clanking softly with each movement. His face is hard as granite; his stare fixed on Metro.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaJ5V47osc7
Kings Guard:
“You are required to present yourself before Lord Theron at his lodge immediately.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ78dNWvj0XP
His hand remains on the sword's hilt.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt3zw3OHTxF
Ana shrinks slightly in her seat, her eyes wide with apprehension. Across the table, Metro’s half-eaten stew suddenly loses its appeal. He swallows the last bite, the warmth turning into a sudden, unsettling lump in his throat.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5LKvf3TAIW
He casts a quick, reassuring glance at Ana, whose worried eyes follow his every move. Without a word, he rises from the table.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVwg596ZijC
The guard grips nod and turns, leading the way out of the cottage.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGObrkD2G03
The forest path — so familiar and comforting moments ago — now feels like a somber corridor.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZu3IlqX2J2
The guard’s heavy boots crunch on the fallen leaves, at a steady, relentless pace.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqXStZHOCFM
Metro falls in step behind him, his mind racing, trying to anticipate Theron’s intentions. The air is thick with Metro’s unspoken thoughts — the wind and world calls, doing little to break the apprehensiveness of the journey.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRbFt9Eo7kw
The King’s Guard maintains pace, his broad back a rigid wall before Metro. They pass through the familiar lanes of the village, the morning activity now in full swing, but the villagers seem to avert their gazes, subservient nods as the First Guard passes.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWosWBB8rEH
Soon the humble cottages give way to more substantial homes, and then, the grand timber lodge rises before him; it's dark wood placed monstrously. Metal ores dominate the walls, and fine stones, the street. A clear sign of wealth and power. Far grander than any other building in the village.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfihtc5I5c8
KINGS LODGES ENTRANCE-
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW3foXV2VdA
Two more guards, equally stoic, stand at attention by thick doors, which swing open at the approaching footsteps.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOQHZDzpsqy
Metro glides through the grand hall; its vaulted ceiling soaring high above, tapestries depict ancient wars adorning the walls, and the scent of polished wood and incense linger in the air. They climb steps and flickering fire lanterns are passed by.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsmYKm1pgqd
The guard steps before a heavy door signaling to enter with a gloved fist. A distant voice bids them to enter.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ50zM4TXtXT
Metro stands and steps into the chamber, the threshold a silent prayer echoing in his heart. As he crosses, the threshold steady. There is a faint white glow gathers around his head, sharp and noticeable in the dim, spacious room.
At the far end, King Theron is hunched over a massive dark oakwood desk, quill scratching steadily across thin parchment. The shift in light makes him glance up, his eyes narrow slightly as the glow outlines Metro's face.
Near the tall window, Veronica stands silently, the daylight behind her framing her figure.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGOfiZzi8Tt
A brief hint of surprise crosses her features before her expression settles again. Her eyes connect with his only for a brief moment .
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ59Md9kGdwD
Metro walks forward steadily. His boots echo softly across the chamber’s floor until he stops several paces from the desk.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyqzAshceyk
With calm deliberation he slips the strap from his shoulder and sets the bag down beside him on the stone floor.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6MiNH1hKMy
Even through the cloth of the bag, the faint shimmer of its contents seem to catch the light around Metro’s head, a glowing reflection clearly visible.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0GbSY4hrPU
Theron’s gaze moves from Metro’s face to the bag resting on the ground. Slowly, he sets his quill aside. His fingers lace together atop the desk, his knuckles tighten with a calculated look in his eyes.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjmkpzWYyOf
Silence fills the chamber for a moment.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5x8bkodsXa
Then Theron leans back in his chair, studying Metro carefully.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXuONiKkxG4
Theron:(nods slowly)
“Welcome.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3pIjkyU2Ea
Metro remains steadfast, his posture calm and unmoved, his eyes fixed squarely on the King.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡonNIswclfH
He calmly and ever so slightly nods his head.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6ij3YFqrfw
The gleam in his eyes does not waver.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5H1TcSY4YI
Theron studies him carefully, his eyes grow colder, more calculating. Metro’s silence lingers in the room longer than he likes. It presses against the king's authority, subtle but unmistakable.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPROHqzBuKE
Theron leans back in his leather chair, gaze unmoved, locked.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZSDpxmjcZv
Across the chamber, Veronica stands near the window, silent, her eyes tracing two tectonic plates grinding against each other.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9PzjAZGfDA
The quiet stretches, thick with anticipation.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlqGN5q6PQa
Theron:(waves his hand dismissively)
“Very well! Let us dispense with the pleasantries.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOUf6NesQUi
His stare dips briefly towards the bag on the floor before returning to Metro.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlo10JjHNmE
Theron:
“Your botanical talents are considerable, and this leaf of yours...”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb65o7wryLA
(flicks his wrist towards backpack)
“is special in all its qualities.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX8LFzFDXQC
(leans forward)
“I have interests that require a consistent, reliable supply of such unique resources.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA4CLSwU05c
(A brief pause.)
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlNAez7caFZ
“I require you to cultivate this magic leaf for me exclusively."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgL03hqo6HK
His fingers tap against the desk as a faint smile forms.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxjoP7hYEfP
“A partnership. A very lucrative one for you, I assure you.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ94zl5nSgr9
(beat)
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSSTmrjoxQL
“im going to need forty thousand quarter-blooms every month consistently without fail.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZAw3GdnGVE
The chamber grows still. Veronica's eyes shift intensely, sensing the gravity of the number.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdHu5U0zEGz
He stands in silence for a moment, measuring Metro’s reaction. He studies him the way a merchant studies a rare commodity—searching for cracks, hesitation, anything.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhmotbISlQX
“Think of what a steady supply could command in certain circles. The influence it could buy. The leverage it could secure.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqpYywEebD8
His voice smooths into something almost persuasive, though the calculation beneath it never fades.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC2zhgwV9iY
“In return you will have protection, safety from those that might interfere with harvest.” You will have access to resources far beyond anything a village could offer. And naturally, compensation in gold. Enough to ensure that your people never want again.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSgygpixRI4
(heavier/colder)
“Understand first that eyes must be on the product at all times. You or someone you vouch for must be present at the fortress.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpZFbh6VNLj
(beat)
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl4l9mX0nqr
‘This isn’t a structure built around controlling your life. It’s a dangerous operation. Emergencies happen. Accidents occur.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaBt1qdTQbE
The air tightens.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6qFjh6zeYf
“If the property is ever left without your appointed overseers, the partnership is off.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrg13UWhONm
Theron:(eyes narrow, sharper)
“Once trade begins, my partners will end every other supplier. Entire markets will shift. Competitors will be starved out.
Buyers will fight for a spot at this table.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhPPTsJmapU
Taps his two fingers on the table twice.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRFpTt2xSL0
(Thin smile forming)
“Greed will sharpen, the wolves will turn vicious, and if that supply falters, even for a moment."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ398NmuWoNH
He whistles and pops the desk once, a lethal punctuation.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmw8RcMwgqK
“Those displaced buyers will come for you, me, and everyone we love.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ079zOvmn8c
(Voice more casual.)
“Its market war, that’s what this has always been. A bunch of serpents dressed in fancy robes, ready to destroy everything in your path – your life’s work…”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCasrHAvdVh
(A short moment.)
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy9WRvzOx3q
“So what do you say? Are you in?”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFxiyc1Hyqk
Metro:(jaw tilted slightly,eyes lit.)
“I agree with your terms and conditions. And I understand the weight behind your request.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOl2Uo4OKPD
“Four thousand blooms a month will draw attention.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpUCURO4CDw
(A quiet breath.)
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4Z6SLJ90oT
“If we displaced players do come, it would put us all in danger, our livelihoods in jeopardy.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbCsdlpYjiu
Metro's voice remains calm but theres firmness behind it.
“If this is the plan moving forward, I trust your judgement in how the land should be guarded and the number of men needed to defend the grounds. "
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDJlOtSVHB2
'I will be at the estate, me or someone I trust with the operation , One that I trust with my life, and to uphold my name.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡauoGTfrxef
(Speaks deliberate, honest.)
“Provide the protection, the resources, and follow through with the payment we've agreed upon and I will meet your quota. Thank you again, for letting me to work.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhhlaNq62Mf
Theron:(delighted)
“Excellent.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡROCEmHQMHY
Theron studies him now with renewed interest.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYBz8osyXnN
“Veronica will see to your immediate needs and will begin arrangements.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSAFxG73CB5
Beat
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoagsV1PxjY
Farewell.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUEraRpmTLO
Metro bows down to grab his bag, turning swiftly for the exit. Veronica follows him; heavy doors swing shut behind Metro, sealing away the tension of the moment.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXUaemKTSf3
The white light beyond them fades, a memory of intensity .
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqfcB2TKxBl
Veronica, who has already moved gracefully towards the doorway, turns to face him. A faint frown creases her brow.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzl9f77jMmc
The great hall and its towering stone walls - now feels like a corridor meant for quiet conversation.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgHFmxlE6AG
Veronica:
“Dramatic display…”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLGkkEgjVHb
Her voice is low and even with a trace of amusement.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxqH00Qi4yt
“My father was taken back; I haven’t seen him that pleased in years.”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCNfrvDTU54
She turns and begins walking, Metro continues behind Veronica’s flowing green dress. She leads him down a quieter corridor. For a moment she looks in his direction.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXUuwr1QHt1
“Forty thousand quarter blooms in a month?”
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG11HrzQHaU
She stares deeply into Metro's eyes now. Veronica steps closer, slowly. Then she stops.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZObdKO8ZRx
The silence stretches for a moment. The confidence she carried earlier has faded slightly, replaced by something more hesitant.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2N1hBiDbIY
Veronica:
"There's something I need to tell you..."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡusa4N7t1u4
Her eyes search Metro's face, as though trying to decide whether the words are worth the trouble they might bring upon her.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7yMhvRk3Yu
"I took it. Yesterday. The Quarter Bloom you lost..."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5hgXfcuTWG
The admission hangs between them like a stone dropping in still water.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHSZ7V4yiPV
A sharp pulse of anger rises in Metro, hot, immediate, demanding release. His face tenses as the memory of the missing bloom flashes through his mind.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpcEmH4BXLq
The trouble it caused.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgS6wVgWUHP
The anger.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNDKs8MgJbC
The confusion.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTjsQPaFdYa
But it stops there. Metro holds it, closing his eyes.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnFFdvZWoDS
Exhaling a storm.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3iwF5sPzCP
When his eyes meet hers again, there is no accusation; only calm restraint. Veronica notices.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZlJuTNKgjH
Veronica:(voice lower now)
"I didn't do it to betray you."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlRbHczsBIV
"I did it to protect you."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhDiU2f21ew
She glances down a corridor before looking back.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhyOQjQvH1G
"My father's just collecting you, like all of his other rare items and jewels."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBoDtqg1cW9
(A moment, longing gaze)
"Don't be angry with me, I just didn't want you to work for him."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcVZrtnNuM3
Her gaze lingers on Metro's face, searching for anger that never comes.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDFYEt15dQE
Metro closes his eyes.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzEom1FnzAS
Metro: (opening eye contact, serious)
"You did it thinking that it would cancel your father's plans for me, to protect me, I get it."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLNICQBHH3v
(shifting gears)
"Tell me the details of your father's plan."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFcPDH9SL2z
She gestures down a dim corridor. At the far end, a heavy iron bound door waits—Darkwood, black metal bands, built to endure.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcAX7DMHh2k
Veronica:
"The details."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡra2mZTYCB8
Her heels tap against stone as she moves closer to the door.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGujyy61Nox
"My father owns an estate in the Whispering Forest. A castle fortress. That's where you're headed."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnolGogGBHJ
Her hand rests on the cold iron ring.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8gYMHkG38c
"There are living quarters inside the fortress, the soldiers will be there guarding the grounds. His banner makes the message clear to outsiders."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWnVYFf7vOt
Then she studies him, steady and expectant.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBg0OM6ekfo
"As for the overseers, we'll need their information, their roles, who they are to you, addresses, that kind of stuff..."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGT1abm5VpG
Metro:
"I'll need time to gather everyone and report back."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeWJuRHot9i
Veronica nods.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoxJezbWf2N
Veronica:
"Take your time. Transport can be arranged for the Estates whenever you're ready.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmA7XDS8X2p
‘Gather your people, and make sure they understand the nature of this operation, and their ~~assigned~~ roles."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzVPb8G62Aj
She studies him again—her favorite pastime—
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY8d1T1YbBh
Veronica:(soft, piercing tone)
"The chariots will be here tomorrow morning, if you want to get a head start and ride with me."
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ6eO08BNkV
She turns casually and leaves down the side corridor hallway, leaving Metro alone in the quiet stone hall.
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxTZa3GMjjF
—scene fades—
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqmOAehYA0d
—End scene—
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi1NzpTVtJ9
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡytVJttju9e
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHfpVdpBpdq
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8t9RSnyZIn
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZTi07uZJNr
301Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSzfR9OOE37
and then Add to home screen.